Francisco Ivan Mendiola Faces Multiple Charges After Miami International Airport Shooting

A 31-year-old man identified as Francisco Ivan Mendiola has been arrested and faces multiple charges following a shooting incident at Miami International Airport that prompted a significant law-enforcement response. According to an arrest affidavit cited by local media, deputies were called to the airport at around 4:05 p.m. on Wednesday after receiving reports of gunfire near a terminal. Investigators allege that Mendiola fired four rounds in the area, with three bullets striking a metal trash can and another hitting the windshield of an unoccupied vehicle.

Authorities said people were present in the surrounding area when the shots were fired, but no injuries were reported. Deputies later located Mendiola on the second floor of a short-term parking garage, according to the arrest affidavit. Investigators said they found him with a firearm and took him into custody. A firearm was reportedly recovered from a backpack, while four spent shell casings were found in the area.

Authorities also said Mendiola appeared to be intoxicated and was behaving aggressively when officers encountered him. Investigators were reportedly unable to conduct a formal interview at the time because of his condition. Mendiola faces charges including shooting or throwing a deadly missile, unlawfully discharging a firearm in a public place and two counts of criminal mischief, according to the arrest paperwork.

The incident temporarily affected operations around the airport. Parts of the departure-level roadway and entrances near the affected area were closed while law enforcement officers investigated the scene. The area was later reopened. Airport officials said passengers and employees were safe following the incident, and authorities determined that there was no continuing threat after Mendiola was detained. Investigators have not publicly disclosed a motive for the alleged shooting. The case remains under investigation, and the charges against Mendiola are allegations that have not been proven in court.

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